Nahla Omarah

Abstract

This thesis explores disability as a relational model and how stigma is produced within an Egyptian domain. This study focuses not only on People with Disabilities (PWDs) but rather on their primary caregivers i.e. parents and siblings. I examine how stigma affects the relationship between caregivers and their disabled family members. I also explore how some relatives run the risk of being stigmatized themselves by association develop a "stigmaphile response". Thus, exploring the notion of concern that is inevitable in caregiver-PWD relationship and how this embodies individuals into new subjectivities under society's control. Furthermore, this thesis aims at finding a way to combat the stereotypes that arise from being associated with PWDs and also aims at shifting people's perspectives into considering that disability should not be categorized it is too diverse and many aspects which differ from one disability to the other thus cannot be categorized in to a "new gender". My goal is to help find a way to eradicate the "shame" that surrounds the word "disability" in order for individuals to be able to enjoy a quality of life without fear, blame and exclusion.

Department

Cynthia Nelson Institute for Gender and Women's Studies

Degree Name

MA in Gender & Women's Studies

Graduation Date

2-1-2020

Submission Date

September 2019

First Advisor

Rieker, Martina

Committee Member 1

Sabea, Hanan

Committee Member 2

Rizzo, Helen

Extent

080 p.

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Rights

The author retains all rights with regard to copyright. The author certifies that written permission from the owner(s) of third-party copyrighted matter included in the thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study has been obtained. The author further certifies that IRB approval has been obtained for this thesis, or that IRB approval is not necessary for this thesis. Insofar as this thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study is an educational record as defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 USC 1232g), the author has granted consent to disclosure of it to anyone who requests a copy.

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

Approval has been obtained for this item

Comments

I would to thank my family for their support and AUC for giving me the opportunity to learn and study. I would also like to thank my committee for their patience, comments and time. I would like to thank my supervisor Martina Rieker for her endless support, patience, time and help. I learned a lot from you. Thank you.

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